Firefighters Make Progress

Promontory Fire burns 2,667 acres; 40 percent contained

"All night, you could see the fires burning down the ridges," said Christopher Creek resident, Jim Hagen. "I'm much more worried about this fire than ones in the past."

As the Promontory Fire continues its reign over the Mogollon Rim for the fifth day, nearby residents like Hagen, who has lived in Christopher Creek since 1966, hope that firefighting efforts continue to progress.

Jason Pettifield/Roundup

Though officials are not releasing the exact cause of the
Promontory Fire, they have declared it to be human caused.

As of Thursday night, the fire was 40 percent contained and had burned at least 2,667 acres.

The Christopher Creek community has not been evacuated, but officials are asking that residents be prepared to leave if the situation arises.

"I've got both cars ready," Hagen said. "I'd hate to lose my home, of course, but I don't have any real fear."

As of yesterday afternoon, no structures had been destroyed.

Fire information officer Rick Hartigan said the fire was not yet a threat to Highway 260. But anything could change at a moment's notice, he was quick to add.

The fire has been burning at a low intensity, Hartigan said, which has been beneficial to firefighters.

The firefighting brigade, which now includes 19 crews, 15 engines, four dozers, five helicopters and 667 total personnel, worked Wednesday and Thursday to reinforce fire lines and improve the structure protection systems in place.

They also conducted burn-out operations on the east and west ends of the fire, robbing it of future fuel.